Connect with us

Lion Links

Lion Links: 7/29/21

Published

on

Happy Thursday, everybody! The summer of soccer is chugging along and things are always busy in our bubble. We’ve got front office updates, local tournaments, news from around the league, the Olympics, Gold Cup, plus the European season starts soon. What’s in store for today?

Alex Leitão Steps Down as CEO of Orlando City

The first major domino in the Wilf family’s takeover of Orlando City has fallen with club CEO Alex Leitão stepping down. Leitão had been with the club since 2013, when he and Flavio Augusto de Silva became owners, with Leitão becoming CEO in 2015 for the team’s first Major League Soccer season.

In his time as CEO, the club built the privately financed Exploria Stadium, added the Orlando Pride, built new training facilities, and attracted high-profile stars for both Orlando City and the Pride. Leitão will stay involved with the club as a soccer-operations adviser. This was a largely expected move, with new owners probably wanting their own person in that position. Fortunately, this shouldn’t affect much in the short term, especially on the field.

Everton, Atletico Nacional Prevail at Florida Cup

The second day of the Florida Cup went down at Camping World Stadium last night, with two big matches. First, Everton took down Pumas 1-0 courtesy of a Moise Kean goal. The Toffees were the superior side and created several good chances, but Pumas kept it to one, though they couldn’t find an equalizer. Everton finished the tournament with a win and a draw (with a penalty shootout victory) in its two games — a good run for a preseason event.

In the second game, Colombian rivals Atletico Nacional and Millonarios did battle. Millonarios were coming off a defeat in penalties to Everton after Sunday’s 1-1 draw and looking to leave Orlando with a positive result. The game got off to a wild start with five goals (!) in the first half. Atletico opened the scoring six minutes in courtesy of Jarlan Barrera and the teams traded goals all half. Atletico’s Jonatan Alvez scored a brace but Millonarios kept it close with two goals of their own from David Silva. Despite the wild first half, the game wasn’t as dynamic down the stretch and the 3-2 scoreline held in Atletico Nacional’s favor. It wasn’t the tournament we originally expected, but given the unforeseen complications, this year’s Florida Cup was a fun couple of days of soccer.

Big MLS Transfer News

The MLS transfer window is open and teams around the league are set to make some serious moves. Yesterday, LAFC and the Colorado Rapids struck a blockbuster trade for Canadian midfielder Mark Anthony Kaye, but even more transfers are on the horizon. Atlanta United, which will continue to spend big no matter how bad it gets, are set to finalize a transfer for Argentine wunderkind Thiago Almada from Velez Sarsfield. Despite his former coach Gabriel Heinze’s recent firing, the signing is close to being finished, as reported by multiple sources, including Fabrizio Romano. Almada is considered arguably the top prospect in South America and will cost Atlanta around $15 million. How this fits into their budget or roster build is unknown, but a player of his quality is a big move for MLS.

The LA Galaxy also have a top talent coming in from abroad, with Romano reporting that Entracht Frankfurt stiker Dejan Joveljić is set to join on a long-term contract. The Serbian international was among the top scorers in the Austrian Bundesliga while on loan last season and would be a high-priced U-22 signing, much like Almada for Atlanta.

MLS MVP Rankings

The good folks over at MLSSoccer.com gave us another power ranking amongst MVP candidates, and it’s interesting. It hasn’t changed much from the last time they released their list, with a top four of Carles Gil, Raul Ruidiaz, Javier “Chicharito” Hernandez, and Daniel Salloi standing firm. All four boast among the best goal contribution numbers in the league and are leading stars on some of the best teams. Rounding out the top five, the spot formerly taken up by Orlando City captain Nani, was Seattle’s João Paolo. The deep-lying playmaker is among the elite all-around midfielders, but is certainly a questionable inclusion given his lack of raw production. Nani remains in the “receiving votes” category, taking an expected fall given Orlando City’s recent patch of form.

Free Kicks

  • Outlets out of South America have reported that Orlando City goalkeeper Pedro Gallese could be set to miss multiple weeks of action; however, Oscar Pareja said there isn’t a timeline and in fact they’ll evaluate Gallese again on Friday. El Pulpo did miss training on Wednesday.

  • Once again, Ashlyn Harris has claimed the Ashlyn Harris Award, which is known in some parts as the NWSL Save of the Week.

  • USMNT and FC Barcelona fullback Sergiño Dest has been subject to interest from other big clubs in Europe but is determined to stay and earn his place at the Camp Nou.
  • All for XI wrote an awesome feature on Zambia’s surprise performances at the Olympics.
  • Kyle Smith took the nickname “El Soldado” to a new level in a photo shoot for the team’s new pre-match tops.


That’s all for me today. Don’t forget, Daryl Dike and the U.S. Men’s National Team have a huge Gold Cup semifinal tonight against Qatar, plus there’s a huge day of soccer tomorrow. Have a great day, everyone Let’s enjoy some soccer.

Lion Links

Lion Links: 4/25/25

Orlando City gets ready for Atlanta United, Luiz Muzzi and Ricardo Moreira promoted, NWSL MVP candidates, and more.

Published

on

Image courtesy of Orlando City SC / Mark Thor

Happy Friday! Today starts three straight days of Orlando soccer to enjoy, so make sure to plan your weekend accordingly. It was a fairly fast week for me, and I was able to read three books somehow. Before we dive into today’s links, let’s all wish a very happy 21st birthday to Orlando City winger Nicolas Rodriguez!

Orlando City Gets Ready for Rivalry Match

The Lions are back in action Saturday night against rival Atlanta United in what should be one of the more interesting matchups of the weekend. Both teams are looking for answers on offense heading into this match, as Orlando is coming off of three straight scoreless draws and Atlanta hasn’t won since March. Taking on a rival at home could be just what’s needed for the Lions to jumpstart their attack and return to the form they had earlier this season. Head Coach Oscar Pareja spoke on how it’s an important game to win for Orlando, as well as how the offense needs to exercise some calmness to finish its chances.

Orlando City Promotes Luiz Muzzi and Ricardo Moreira

Luiz Muzzi and Ricardo Moreira were both promoted by Orlando City, with Moreira taking over as the club’s general manager and sporting director and Muzzi becoming senior advisor to ownership, global soccer ventures. It’s a natural step up for Moreira, who joined the club in 2018 and has helped build a competitive roster that’s made the playoffs for the past five seasons. Muzzi’s new role is a bit of a mouthful, but he’ll be taking on an advisory role focused on the growth of the club while working closely with ownership.

“I am truly grateful to have had the opportunity to serve as Orlando City Soccer Club’s EVP of Soccer Operations and General Manager for seven seasons, and I am excited to continue my journey with the club in this new role,” said Luiz Muzzi. “I look forward to working alongside the Wilf family and the leadership team to help shape the future of the club and its continued success, both on and off the field, and I know Orlando City’s Soccer Operations will be in great hands under Ricardo’s leadership.”

Orlando Pride Players in the NWSL MVP Hunt

Now that we’re over a month into the NWSL season, ESPN‘s Jeff Kassouf highlighted the league’s early MVP candidates, and there are a couple of familiar faces in his rankings. Orlando Pride forward Barbra Banda is predictably in the mix in sixth on the list, as she has three goals and an assist to her name so far. But a surprise inclusion is midfielder Haley McCutcheon, who has impressed on both sides of the ball to earn ninth place in the rankings. While I think the MVP race will ultimately be between scorers like Banda, Temwa Chawinga, Ashley Hatch, and Debinha, it’s pretty great to see McCutcheon receive deserved praise for her performance this year.

MLS Transfer News Roundup

The transfer deadline may be over for MLS clubs, but deals that crossed the finish line are still coming in. The Columbus Crew added yet another forward by sending up to $1.2 million to the Houston Dynamo in exchange for Aliyu Ibrahim. The 23-year-old will maintain his U22 Initiative Player status in Columbus and recorded 12 goals and nine assists across 90 appearances for Houston. LAFC signed 26-year-old midfielder Ryan Raposo, who spent the past five seasons with the Vancouver Whitecaps and was a free agent this year. St. Louis City also made things official with Simon Becher by making his loan move a permanent one so that he stays with the club.

Free Kicks


That’s all I have for you this time around. Mother’s Day is less than a month away, just as a warning. If the mothers in your life like romance books and you’re looking for a gift, I can’t recommend The Rom-Commers by Katherine Center enough. Have a great Friday!

Continue Reading

Lion Links

Lion Links: 4/24/25

Orlando Pride prepare for Angel City FC, MLS deadline day deals, OCB slips in power rankings, and more.

Published

on

Image courtesy of Orlando Pride / Jeremy Reper

How’s it going, Mane Landers? It’s been a few days since a rough weekend for Orlando City and the Orlando Pride. Time heals all wounds, but let’s also hope it heals offenses considering both teams were shut out. Let’s go ahead and manifest some good officiating this weekend as well while we’re at it. That might be a tall order, but I’m feeling optimistic. Let’s get to the links!

Orlando Pride Prepare for Angel City FC

The Orlando Pride will look to bounce back when they welcome Angel City FC to the City Beautiful for a home game Friday night. Orlando lost its first game of the year and first home game since 2023 last week against the Washington Spirit, falling 1-0. Angel City is also coming off of its first loss of the season, falling 4-0 at home to NJ/NY Gotham FC at home. Pride defender Kerry Abello spoke on how the Pride will need to create better chances compared to last week as they prepare to right the ship with a home victory.

Orlando City B Drops a Spot in Power Rankings

Although OCB fell from third to fourth in the latest MLS NEXT Pro power rankings, the Young Lions are solidly in the top five teams in the league. OCB was on a bye last weekend, so not moving too much in the rankings can be expected. While the Young Lions fell 3-2 in their last league game against Inter Miami II, spirits are likely high with the team due to the Orlando City U-18 team’s success in the Generation Adidas Cup. Let’s hope the Young Lions can ride that momentum into Sunday night’s match with New York Red Bulls II.

MLS Deadline Day Transfer News

The MLS transfer deadline day has come and gone and there were some notable moves to catch up on. Real Salt Lake’s deal with Boavista for forward Robert Bozenik reportedly collapsed, but the club still added striker William Agada from Sporting Kansas City in exchange for $500,000 in 2025 General Allocation Money and another $350,000 in GAM if he re-signs. Inter Miami traded winger Robert Taylor to Austin FC in exchange for up to $750,000 in GAM, with only $50,000 of that being conditional. Atlanta United traded winger Xande Silva to St. Louis City SC for up to $250,000 in GAM as well.

The Houston Dynamo also have a new forward, signing Toyosi Olusanya from Scottish club St. Mirren. The New England Revolution traded Noel Buck to the San Jose Earthquakes for up to $650,000 in cold, hard cash, reuniting the 20-year-old with Bruce Arena. Frankie Amaya is back in MLS, joining LAFC on loan from Toluca. As of this writing, Minnesota United are reportedly in hot pursuit of Miami’s Julian Gressel.

Sources: Minnesota United in advanced talks to acquire Julian Gressel from Inter Miami.Nothing done yet. Still details to figure out. Optimism something gets done, but not there yet.

Tom Bogert (@tombogert.bsky.social) 2025-04-24T00:25:26.971Z

Keeping Up With the Americans Abroad

The race for a place in the English Premier League is heating up in the EFL Championship and Americans are right in the thick of it. Brenden Aaronson and Leeds United have already secured promotion, along with Burnley. Forward Haji Wright has scored 12 goals for Coventry City this season, and his club currently holds the final playoff spot. Midfielder Aidan Morris and Middlesbrough are three points behind, while former Lion Daryl Dike and West Brom will need to win their remaining two matches for a shot at sneaking in.

In Italy, Christian Pulisic started in AC Milan’s 3-0 victory over rival Inter to book a spot in the Italian Cup final on May 14. Fellow American Yunus Musah was an unused substitute. Catarina Macario scored twice and Mia Fishel added a goal as well in Chelsea’s 4-0 win against Crystal Palace, helping their team get ever closer to winning its sixth straight Women’s Super League title.

Free Kicks


That’s it for today’s links! Make sure to stay hydrated out there as we get closer and closer to summer. Have a wonderful Thursday and rest of your week.

Continue Reading

Lion Links

Lion Links: 4/23/25

The Orlando Pride drop, OCSC Academy awards, USMNT characters, and more.

Published

on

Image courtesy of Orlando City B / Mark Thor

Welcome to Wednesday, Mane Landers. This weekend we have the most convenient schedule, with the Orlando Pride playing Friday night, Orlando City on Saturday night, and Orlando City B on Sunday night. It’s nice knowing what I’ll be doing each night. Now, I just need all three teams to get back on the winning side of things. Until then, let’s get to the links.

Bad Pride, Good Pride

It might have been the dumbest way to lose a match against the Washington Spirit, but — actually nevermind, there is no “but” about it. We can, however, decide to move forward rather than dwell on it after today. Unsurprisingly, the Pride dropped in the all-knowing power rankings. All for XI only dropped the Pride one spot to No. 2 since everyone has a bad day now and again. The CBS power ranking dropped the team to No. 3. That was the “bad.” The “good” is that we can revisit the puppies that showed up at Inter&Co Stadium. The loss still hurts, but it’s hard to stay mad after looking at the puppies.

The (OCSC) Academy Awards

Assuming you read Lion Links on Monday morning (or listened to The Mane Land PawedCast this week) you know that the Orlando City SC Academy U-18 team won the Generation Adidas Cup. Now we know that three of the very young Lions — Gustavo Caraballo, Jackson Platts, and Justin Ellis — were named to the U18 Best XI. Additionally, Caraballo and Ellis earned MVP and Top Scorer awards, respectively. It was truly the bright spot of an otherwise forgettable weekend.

Pochettino Prepares

The USMNT did not do well in the Concacaf Nations League, falling to Panama and then Canada in the third place match. Now, U.S. Head Coach Mauricio Pochettino has to prepare the team for the Gold Cup. Pochettino said that he needs the “right characters” on the squad, whether they are the most talented or not. He also spoke of the need for the players to fight for the badge and the flag. Former USMNT coach Bruce Arena said Pochettino may not be the right man for the job because he’s not an American. The USMNT’s next matches are friendlies against Turkiye and Switzerland on June 7 and June 10, respectively.

MLS Transfer News

The Columbus Crew are making moves. The club received $250,000 in General Allocation Money (GAM) from the Houston Dynamo in exchange for a 2025 international roster slot. The club then sent DeJuan Jones to the San Jose Earthquakes for $425,000 in GAM and a 2025 international roster slot. Elsewhere, Sporting Kansas City acquired forward Santiago Muñoz on loan from Liga MX side Santos Laguna.

Free Kicks


That will do it for today. Check back as we get you ready for the full slate of matches coming up.

Continue Reading

Trending